If you have been injured in a car accident in Florida, the actions you take immediately after the crash may have serious effects on the outcome of your personal injury claim.
Following these simple steps immediately after your car accident you can assist in developing a strong personal injury claim:
Step #1: Call 911
Immediately after the accident, contact the police and emergency medical personnel. Do not leave the scene of the accident, and wait for the police to arrive. Do not move your vehicle unless leaving it poses a greater safety risk to yourself and others. Wait for the police and emergency personnel to arrive in a safe area out of the way of traffic.
Step #2: Seek Medical Treatment
Even if you only feel slightly injured, accept medical treatment from EMS at the scene, and accept a ride to the emergency room if your injuries warrant it. It is not uncommon to feel injured a few days after the crash. Medical personnel are trained to recognize injuries from car accidents. Therefore, if you feel that you are injured in any way, immediately go to the emergency room, or have a friend or relative take you to the hospital for a complete examination. Be sure to describe all of your injuries and symptoms in detail to emergency medical staff even if it seems insignificant at the time so that all of your injuries may be properly documented in your medical record.
Step #3: Take Photographs of the Vehicles and the Accident Scene
If you have a camera or a mobile phone with a camera, and you can safely photograph the scene, take photographs of the vehicles and the accident scene, as well as photographs of your injuries and/or your passengers’ injuries. These photos may be used to determine liability and be used as evidence at trial.
Step #4: Collect Information
Law Enforcement will assist in obtaining the contact information for the other vehicles and drivers involved in the crash, and witnesses, and will provide you with a case number so that you may order a copy of the traffic crash report. If law enforcement does not arrive at the scene, be sure to collect the names, addresses, phone numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance information for the other people who were involved in the accident. If there were witnesses who observed the accident and who may testify on your behalf, you should also collect their contact information.
Step #5: Do Not Give Any Statements To Other Parties or Insurance Adjusters
Apologizing after an accident or admitting fault can negatively affect your personal injury lawsuit. Do not give any recorded statements to insurance adjusters or sign any paperwork without consulting with an experienced car accident attorney. If you accept a settlement offer from an insurance company, you may be forever barred from bringing a personal injury lawsuit. An attorney who is experienced in car accident claims can advise you on fair settlement amounts in order to compensate you for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Step #6: Consult With A Florida Car Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in a car accident, an experienced attorney will advise you on the value of your potential claim. An attorney experienced in car accidents will investigate and gather evidence in the form of reports, medical records, and other evidence to support your claim. The attorney will work to negotiate a settlement with the insurance company and at-fault parties, and if a fair settlement is not reached the attorney will file a lawsuit on your behalf, and prepare your case for trial.
You Need a Highly Skilled Advocate on Your Side
It is essential that you speak with an experienced Personal Injury Attorney as soon as possible after your accident. The attorney can advise you on gathering important evidence in order to help prove that the other driver was liable for the accident and your injuries.
The Law Office of Heidi A. Hillyer, P.A. has experience representing victims of car accidents and will work diligently to seek full and fair compensation for your injuries.
No Fees if No Recovery
The Law Office of Heidi A. Hillyer, P.A. accepts car accident cases in Florida on a contingency fee basis. This means that if there is no recovery there is no cost to you.
Schedule a Free Consultation
To schedule your free and confidential initial consultation and case evaluation, please call The Law Office of Heidi A. Hillyer, P.A. at (407) 636-8300, email, or contact us online.